Talking to Your Doctor about Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it is essential to talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors and/or experience with PAD. By talking openly and regularly with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of things you may have missed.

Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.

Write down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for clarification, if necessary.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and learn where you can find more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.

Will I develop symptoms in the future? How soon will that happen?

How likely is it that I will have complications like infection or
gangrene
?

Can you help me with foot care and advice, or do I have to see a podiatrist?

What medications do you recommend?

What effects, both positive and negative, can I expect?

Will they interact with anything I am already taking?

How long will I have to take them?

Are there alternative therapies that have been shown to help treat PAD?

Will surgery ever be necessary?

Am I doing all I can to address the causes of this condition to help keep it from getting worse?

Please give me the information I need to engage in a proper, safe exercise program.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Talking to your doctor. National Institutes of Health website. Available at: http://nih.gov/clearcommunication/talktoyourdoctor.htm. Updated January 27, 2016. Accessed June 13, 2016.

Tips for talking to your doctor. American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor website. Available at: http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/healthcare-management/working-with-your-doctor/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor.html. Updated May 2014. Accessed June 13, 2016.